Long-distance expansion coefficient of the pipe
The coefficient of long-distance expansion of the pipe, also known as the coefficient of linear thermal expansion, is a physical quantity that determines how the length of the pipe changes as a function of temperature. Each material has its own thermal expansion coefficient, which indicates how much the length of the material increases or decreases when the temperature increases or decreases by 1°C.
In heating systems such as underfloor heating, plastic pipes such as PEX (polyethylene oxide) or PPR (polypropylene) are often used. These materials have different coefficients of thermal expansion. Therefore, it is important to consider the thermal expansion of the pipe when designing and installing the heating system.
If the temperature of the water in the pipe rises, the pipe expands, and vice versa, when the temperature decreases, the pipe shrinks. Proper design and installation of the system must ensure sufficient pipe clearance to compensate for thermal expansion and thus prevent unwanted stresses and deformations in the pipe.
The coefficient of long-distance expansion is therefore an important parameter in the construction and installation of pipeline systems to ensure their long-term reliability and trouble-free operation.